More than two decades after ‘School of Rock’ introduced audiences to a group of young musicians led by Jack Black‘s character, the bond between its cast members remains strong. Actor Brian Falduto, who played Billy (also known as Fancy Pants) in the 2003 comedy, revealed that Black continues to support his former young co-stars, even as they pursue careers beyond acting.Falduto, who has since built a career as a country singer and musician, recently spoke about his relationship with Black, their latest musical collaboration and the lasting connection among the film’s cast. During an episode of ‘The Dory Jackson Interview’, he also revealed that the former child actors still have an active group chat more than 23 years after working together.
Why does Brian Falduto think Jack Black still supports his former co-stars?
Falduto believes Black’s continued involvement has something to do with the personal importance of ‘School of Rock’ in the actor’s own career. The film gave Black an opportunity to bring together his love of music and comedy, making it a particularly memorable project for him.“I think the reason Jack still even gives us the time of day, never mind sings on my song, is because that was also a really special thing for him,” Falduto explained.“I think that movie was a big breakout for him,” he continued. “He got to do something he really loved, and that was comedic, and it tied to his music. I think it’s a very fond project for him.”Falduto also described Black’s support as something that has continued quietly over the years. The actor helped produce the music video for Falduto’s 2020 song ‘God Loves Me Too’ and later joined him for another musical collaboration inspired by their film.“He’s been supporting my career kind of silently for a while now,” Falduto said.
How Jack Black’s kindness influenced Brian Falduto
Their professional relationship has gradually developed into something Falduto considers a form of mentorship. He said Black’s willingness to participate in his projects has shown him the importance of remaining approachable, regardless of how successful someone becomes.“He does not need to respond to me. He does not need to participate in all these things, but he does it because I think that’s just who he is,” Falduto said.“He’s a really kind person,” he added. “And so I think it’s just been a reminder to keep that kindness and that humility at the front of what I’m doing if I can.”Black also joined Falduto on ‘You’re Tacky & I Hate You (School of Rock Reunion)’, a song inspired by Billy’s memorable dialogue in the original movie. The collaboration brought together the actor’s present-day music career and a character audiences still remember from his childhood.
‘School of Rock’ cast still has an active group chat
Black’s support is not the only connection Falduto continues to value from the film. During the interview, he revealed that the former child cast members have maintained an active group chat, allowing them to stay connected long after filming ended.“I think we’re very fortunate. I don’t know of many major motion pictures where you can say that you still have an active group text 23 years later,” he said.“I think we went through something really special and unique at a young age that only the 14 other kids and myself will be able to ever talk about,” he added. “And so I think there was something really bonding about that.”
How did the ‘You’re Tacky & I Hate You’ reunion song come together?
Falduto also explained how the idea for the reunion track developed. A fellow songwriter initially suggested turning Billy’s famous line into a song, but Falduto was hesitant about revisiting something so closely associated with his childhood role.“No, that’s crazy. I could never do that,” Falduto recalled thinking at the time.The idea eventually became more appealing when he realised it could bring his former co-stars together for a new project. Rather than simply revisiting an old character moment, he saw an opportunity to reconnect with friends and create something different.“This idea of turning it into a reunion was really enriching for me because I was like, then I get to work with my friends again, and I get to see everybody, and we can make something really cool,” he explained.He contacted his former castmates and was surprised by how enthusiastically they responded.“Everyone was way more game than I expected them to be,” he recalled. “Everyone was like, ‘Yeah, absolutely. When do you need me?’ ”For Falduto, the project also offered a chance to give a familiar line a new meaning rather than remain defined by it.“It felt like I took something that everyone tries to sort of pigeonhole me for, and then I was like, ‘Well, actually, I’m going to put a little twist on it that only present-day Brian can do,’ ” he said.The reunion reflects how the film continues to connect its cast members, with Black’s support and the group’s long-running friendship keeping a special part of their shared childhood experience alive.